This holiday season eliminate stress by going out! The Global Ambassador— a Michlin Key holding boutique hotel in Phoenix—features six different restaurants to explore, enjoy, and elevate your meals. We got a chance to chat with the executive chef, Jason Hua, to learn more about this nearby gem.
Those closest to him would describe Chef Hua as determined, fun, and someone who is good with numbers. He sees himself as focused and motivated. We would like to add humble and kind to the list. He is incredibly friendly and approachable; you would never know that he was part of seven Michlin Stars throughout his culinary career.
Chef Hua grew up in L.A. with parents in high powered careers. He knew he wanted to be a chef as a teenager, but his parents wanted him to go to college instead. He did both—going to Boston University to study finance and working in kitchens while out there. He shares that he thought he was a good cook, despite a cooking fail involving hot oil while trying to make ice cream tempera once. He got into that first restaurant and discovered that he didn’t know 90% of the ingredients around him. He focused on learning, not one to let pride get in the way, and learned everything he could.
That learning and humbleness paid off, he would move on to New York (inspired by seeing most great restaurants on popular lists being in NY) and work at Jean Georges. He was there when they received three Michlin Stars. He made his way through Europe, working in kitchens in London, Spain, and France. The accomplishments don’t end there; he was even invited to cook for the Mexican government.
At Global Ambassador, you’ll find the most delicious options like—théa, the Mediterranean Rooftop restaurant—Le Âme, the Parisian Steakhouse—Pink Dolphin, the poolside Mexican grill—and The Lobby Bar, where you can find live music on weekends. If you’re looking for more of a coffee shop, check out Le Market. The Global Ambassador is the perfect place for celebrating, a date night out, or to grab a quick bite.